Chapter 23: You Are Hiding Someone

The two of them looked toward the source of the sound at the same time.

Song Yanzi’s heart skipped a beat, and she quickly averted her gaze.

"Tell me, how much money do you want?"

Xu Yaqi asked curiously, "Yanzi, you have your phone in your hand; why is another one ringing?"

As she spoke, she scrutinized the Song Yanzi sitting opposite her, but her expression remained unchanged.

Song Yanzi explained, "I have two phones; that one is for work."

She lied without batting an eye or missing a beat. In her heart, she silently prayed: Shen Yichi, you had better not answer that call. If you are discovered, it will be a disaster.

Xu Yaqi didn't believe her. "Yanzi, are you hiding someone in there?"

Although Song Yanzi's excuse was flawless, Xu Yaqi had already sensed something amiss. Song Yanzi felt a surge of panic but denied it, "There’s no such thing." She knew Xu Yaqi was fishing for information.

Xu Yaqi got straight to the point. "There are men's shoes in your shoe cabinet, and... look... there’s a man’s black jacket on the sofa."

In truth, she had noticed the black leather shoes the moment she entered. Combined with the long delay in opening the door and the marks on Song Yanzi’s neck, the truth was clear.

Song Yanzi felt no panic or embarrassment at being caught. Instead, she replied with calm composure, "I hired a male escort. You know how it is—physical needs."

Xu Yaqi was sharp; since the secret was out, Song Yanzi decided to own it openly.

Xu Yaqi’s eyes widened playfully. "I never imagined you would do something like this." Given how haughty and ascetic Song Yanzi usually appeared, it seemed unbelievable.

Song Yanzi didn't reply, simply staring at her.

Xu Yaqi, being clever, caught the drift immediately and swore, "We’re all adults; I understand. Don't worry, I will absolutely keep this a secret for you."

Song Yanzi wasn't worried about her spilling the beans. After all, she was Xu Yaqi’s cash cow.

"Tell me, what did you really come here for?"

Xu Yaqi was direct. "My mother’s medical bills are due."

Song Yanzi pulled out her phone and transferred the money.

Upon receiving the funds, Xu Yaqi was visibly delighted. "Also, this Friday, there’s an event at Jiujiu’s kindergarten that requires a parent’s attendance. Unfortunately, my best friend is getting married that day, so I’m afraid I have to trouble you to go in my place."

Song Yanzi put her phone away. "Fine, I understand."

Xu Yaqi couldn't hide her joy. "Then I won't bother you anymore."

"Wait." As she took two steps toward the door, Xu Yaqi paused. "What is it?"

Song Yanzi turned around. "I give you so much money every month; I expect you to be professional."

Xu Yaqi froze at the words. Although Song Yanzi’s expression remained calm, her words carried a heavy sense of intimidation.

"I will play my part exactly as you require." With that, Xu Yaqi turned and left.

Song Yanzi watched her figure retreat, her eyes deepening.

When she returned to the bedroom, the man was already sitting on her bed, watching her with a profound, meaningful gaze.

Song Yanzi said firmly, "You are not allowed to come here again. Something like today must never happen a second time." She wouldn't always be lucky enough to bluff her way out of it.

Seeing her displeasure, the man curled his lips. "You’re very fierce, Ms. Song!"

Song Yanzi closed the door, walked over, pulled back the covers, and got into bed.

Shen Yichi reached out and pulled her into his arms. "Am I a male escort?"

Song Yanzi’s breath hitched; he had heard her. "I couldn't think of a better excuse." If she had said she had a boyfriend, Xu Yaqi would have been insatiably curious and asked endless questions.

Shen Yichi lowered his head, resting his nose against hers, and murmured in a husky voice, "Dear customer, I will make sure to serve you well and ensure your satisfaction."

No sooner had he finished speaking than he captured her lips.

For some reason, Shen Yichi was in a playful mood, constantly asking her if she was satisfied. Finally, unable to bear his relentless teasing, she gave in. "I am very satisfied with your service. I will definitely hire you again next time."

"Since you're satisfied, it will cost extra. And don't forget to give me a five-star review," the man said, his voice filled with pleasure and contentment.

Afterward, he carried her to the bathroom to bathe.

Remembering something, Shen Yichi brought her to stand in front of the mirror. "Take a look!"

At that moment, Song Yanzi was draped over him, confused. "At what?"

The man whispered in a raspy voice, "This is what you look like after being exploited by a wicked capitalist."

In the mirror, the two were pressed tightly together, completely unclothed.

At this, her already flushed face turned even redder, and she was overcome with shyness. Seeing her embarrassed, the man, already in high spirits, felt even more delighted.

The next day, when Song Yanzi woke up, the man was already gone.

After she finished washing up and stepped out, she found breakfast waiting on the table. It was no surprise; this was typical of Shen Yichi. Everything was exactly what she liked to eat.

As she headed out, she transferred a hundred yuan to her "contractor."

"Good performance. This is your tip; I’ll hire you again next time."

At that moment, Shen Yichi was at the breakfast table. Seeing the message, he couldn't help but curve his lips into a smile.

"Customer satisfaction is the best recognition of my hard work." After replying, he didn't forget to accept the money.

Today was the day to return to the old Shen family estate.

Opposite him, Shen Yihuan saw her brother smiling and was completely shocked. Her brother, who was always composed, reserved, and never cracked a smile—that frozen-faced man—was actually smiling. And he was smiling with such unchecked indulgence!

Something was wrong. Something was very wrong.

Her brother really had a woman. Who on earth was she? She was determined to find out.